Alexandra Schneider, 53, originally from South Germany, lives in the idyllic Lake District in Windermere. Somewhere we would all love to visit right now right?
Akexandra says, 'I Moved over to Windermere in 2008 and started straight away my own business as a mobile massage therapist and, in 2016, I started to make jewellery as well.'
Asked what the business is all about, Alexandra comments, 'My actual business is called DriftwoodGirl. I make inspirational yoga and meditation jewellery. It's only myself. I'm the owner, designer and post office visitor'.
In what sounds like a huge undertaking, Alexandra is clear about what drives her, 'After having had Covid last year in March and the long lockdown, it was obvious to me that I feel much better (physically and mentally) without the physical work as a massage therapist. I struggle with slipped discs and have been in a lot of pain over the last 4 years. So for me Covid-19 and the lockdown has been very positive in terms of my health'.
She continues, 'I've given up my massage business and started to concentrate only on my jewellery. It was quite hard to give up what i love to do, and helping others was always my pleasure. But now I feel very happy and satisfied'.
So, what is the message behind your business? 'When I was younger I wanted to help and volunteer in Africa or India for example. Helping the local people to have a better life was always on my agenda.
I'm now working together (by buying the rudraksha beads and other wooden beads) with a local Indian charity in Vrindavan to help the women (widows) to have work and social contact. From Thailand I buy charms from a tribe called Karen Hill Tribe which helps the local people have work. So, every time a customer buys a mala from DriftwoodGirl some of the money goes to these charities.
In the future I'd like to be involved in more international charities as it just makes me happy'.
Any thoughts on how to keep mind and body fulfilled? 'I Love my daily routine as in walking and running every early morning and I love my meditations, yoga and mindfulness. My little workshop is at home upstairs and I'm very happy working from home on my own'.
I have purchased several mala from DriftwoodGirl and am so pleased with them. Not only are they sustainable, offer jobs and an income for those that need it, but, they are also a delight to own and wear. With so many styles to choose from, you are sure to add something precious to your wardrobe for years to come. You can find DriftwoodGirl on Etsy.
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